Results: How Did Zionism Enter Christianity? A Look at the Scofield Bible & Israel
Published on 03/06/2025
Christianity historically did not promote Zionism—the belief in a Jewish state in Israel—until the 20th century. The Scofield Reference Bible, first published in 1909, introduced Zionist-friendly interpretations into Christian theology, heavily influencing modern Christian support for Israel. This shift has had significant political and religious implications, affecting U.S. foreign policy and Christian perspectives on biblical prophecy.
This poll explores how familiar Christians are with pre-Zionist Christianity, the Scofield Bible, and the modern relationship between Christianity and Israel.
QUESTIONS
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1.
1.
Are you a Christian? Yes
62%
1312 votes
No
38%
788 votes
2.
2.
Before this poll, were you aware that Christian theology was historically non-Zionist before the 20th century? Yes
20%
411 votes
No
80%
1689 votes
3.
3.
Have you heard of the Scofield Reference Bible and its role in promoting Zionism in Christianity? Yes, I know about it
8%
169 votes
I've heard of it but don't know much
13%
282 votes
No, this is new to me
79%
1649 votes
4.
4.
How do you think Christian Zionism has influenced support for Israel? It has strongly shaped Christian political and financial support for Israel
11%
231 votes
It has had some influence, but other factors play a bigger role
11%
222 votes
It has had little to no effect on Christian views on Israel
6%
129 votes
I don't know
72%
1518 votes
5.
5.
Do you believe the idea of Israel as a fulfillment of biblical prophecy is a modern theological interpretation? Yes, it was introduced in the 20th century
12%
246 votes
No, it has always been part of Christian belief
22%
472 votes
Unsure
66%
1382 votes
6.
6.
Christian Zionism has influenced U.S. foreign policy, including billions of dollars in aid to Israel and political backing. Do you think this aligns with Christian teachings? Yes, Christians should support Israel for biblical reasons
16%
343 votes
No, Christianity should not be tied to political Zionism
21%
446 votes
I need to learn more before answering
62%
1311 votes
7.
7.
Would you be interested in learning more about the history of Zionism in Christianity? Yes
28%
596 votes
No
72%
1504 votes
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